Emma Watson Doesn't Do Fan Selfies

Why We Shouldn't Be Mad That Emma Watson Won't Take Photos With Fans

Ever since Emma Watson starred in a little franchise called Harry Potter (maybe you've heard of it?) the world has been completely and utterly fascinated by the Brit. The fact that Watson gave life to magical feminist role model Hermione Granger — and became an outspoken crusader for equality IRL — turned the actress into a bonafide icon. It's no wonder, then, that so many people would love to have a selfie with Watson to use as their Facebook profile picture, or have framed over their beds. However, according to a new interview in Vanity Fair, if Watson has her way, it just won't happen.

Advertisement

And sorry, fans: you don't have the right to be mad about it.

In addition to talking about why she doesn't like to discuss her boyfriend, Watson told Vanity Fair's Derek Blasberg that she's decided to stop taking selfies with fans:

"If someone takes a photograph of me and posts it, within two seconds they've created a marker of exactly where I am within 10 meters," said Watson. "They can see what I’m wearing and who I’m with. I just can’t give that tracking data."

Some people might scoff at that notion — don't paparazzi snap photos of Watson all the time? While that's certainly the case, there's one big difference. While a pap may take a ton of pictures, they often will sell the photos to a magazine or other news source — the photos don't always get uploaded instantly. If the Beauty & The Beast actress is sitting in a coffee shop, the photos may get published hours or even days later. A fan isn't trying to sell a photo, and could very well upload that picture instantaneously to Twitter. Suddenly, everyone knows where Watson is in that exact moment — not exactly ideal for someone who wants some semblance of privacy.

Emma Watson loves the fame and fortune but won't take selfies with fans who give it to her. Out of touch https://t.co/kg2nwBP06u

Celebrities may be famous, but most importantly, they are people — and like any other human being, they are entitled to certain things. That includes the right to protect their privacy. Yes, there are certain benefits that one receives from opening up their life, such as the fortune that often comes with fame. But the ability to lead a life that, if not necessarily "normal," feels comfortable? That's priceless, and something that we all deserve.